High-Definition vs. Standard-Definition Video

High-Definition vs. Standard-Definition Video, Aspect Ratio, and Frame Rate

Just about everyone knows that HD stands for “high-definition,” but why do all those numbers matter to you?  Three words: quality, quality, and quality.  A Full HD image is just so much clearer, and because of its large size, all the small details can be seen much easier and clearer.  Also, when viewing HD video on a large TV or monitor, the video is usually shrunken to fit the screen, which means there is no loss of image quality.  In contrast, an SD video would have to be stretched to fit a large screen, thus decreasing its viewing quality and making the image look pixelated, or unsmooth.

Two other things to consider are aspect ratios and frame rates.  Aspect ratio refers to the shape of the image (the ratio of its horizontal length to its vertical height).  The two common aspect ratios are 4:3 (4×3 or standard) and 16:9 (16×9 or wide-screen).  The 4:3 ratio is definitely going by the wayside, as it is pretty rare for video to be shot in 4:3, in addition to TVs like your old square-ish tube TV being nearly extinct.  The most practical reason for the 16:9 ratio is that is much closer to the shape of what we see with our eyes; the image is much wider than it is tall (78% wider, as opposed to just 33% with the 4:3 ratio).  Click here to read more in-depth about aspect ratios and see some comparison images.

Frame rate in video refers to the number of frames shown per second (fps).  As you probably know, video (based off the concept of film and film projection, of course) is made up of still images that are shown quickly enough to “trick” the brain into seeing continuous motion.  We like to use the cinematic-looking 24fps, which is the typical frame rate for movies.  If placed side-by-side, just about anyone would notice the difference between footage at 24fps (movies) and 30fps (typical television/video frame rate).  The 30fps tends to have a more “realistic” feel, but the 24fps definitely has an artistic and engaging quality that is very hard to replicate or to fake by using effects.

The combination of using the highest quality and most aesthetically pleasing specifications will make all the difference in creating a professional, engaging and impactful video.

Boston High Definition Videography

McElroy Films has been trusted by countless firms in Boston for providing professional high definition videography services. Companies ranging from non-profits to consulting firms. Get your project done right the first time with an award-winning staff of producers, videographers and editors at your disposal.

McElroy Films provides a comprehensive list of videography services. We are video experts and can help deliver your message in a powerful multimedia package with professional producing, videography and editing. Many satisfied clients have come to trust McElroy Films with their needs. Read what others are saying about us here.

Video can be a daunting and challenging task. Many firms take it upon themselves to produce their own internal video for the web. However, this method normally makes the firm look more unappealing than what their original intention had been. Make sure to use professionals that have been in the business for years and that have won awards for their work.

If you’re a Business or Non-Profit. Then you must have some level of pain. We’re in the business of solving your organization’s ailments so to speak. We provide services that can either generate business, create awareness or raise funds. These solutions and others can help you succeed in this multimedia driven world.

Contact us today to learn more about what video can do for you. Below you’ll find some of our recent work.

The Best Video Production Companies

Topseos.com just named the Best Video Production Firms for the month of April 2011. The companies listed below are from around the country working with numerous fortune 500 companies and well-know business and organizations.

Read the full press release here. http://pressmediawire.com/24755/The-Best-Video-Production-Companies-Ranked-by-topseos.com-for-April-2011.html

The Top 10 Video Production Companies for April 2011 are:

1. Studio Center

2. SkyStorm Productions

3. BeanoVision Productions

4. Innovate Media

5. Independent Media Productions, Inc.

6. Eyecon Video Productions

7. Indigo Productions

8. Levy Production

9. Seven Pictures

10. Video One Pro

McElroy Films Launches Latest Press Release – March 2011

McElroy Films Launches latest Press Release Tuesday March 2, 2011.

Excerpt: “This past year has been incredible for McElroy Films,” extolled president and owner Benjamin J. McElroy. “We have been able expand every service we provide while still maintaining affordability without sacrificing the quality of video production.”

With a Telly and a Davey awarded for excellence in emotional videos produced for Fenway Health and the South Shore Habitat for Humanity respectively, there is no doubt that quality products continue to emerge from Ben’s growing video production company. McElroy Films’ wedding division has also won praise having received the distinction of ‘Best of the Knot for 2010’ and has seen a 50% increase in bookings for 2011.

“It’s very gratifying to be rewarded for the things my team and I do day in and day out. Focus on quality and great client communication and the awards will follow.”

Please visit PRWeb to read the full version. http://www.prweb.com/releases/boston_production/online_video_trends/prweb5078274.htm

McElroy Films LLC Expands to Burlington

McElroy Films LLC Expands to New Location: Maintains Quality and Affordability

Burlington, MA – In today’s climate, it is more important than ever for businesses, organizations, and individuals to set themselves apart from their competitors. A video, whether for broadcast, social networking, presentations, or other means, can be the catalyst that allows a business to reach the next level or the non-profit to successfully fundraise.  Since its inception, McElroy Films (http://mcelroyfilms.com) has provided quality, affordable high definition video production with those needs firmly in mind.  McElroy Films has created content for everything from advertising and public service announcements for corporate, non-profit, and educational use to memorable wedding videography, special events, music videos, and independent film.

“I went into business for myself, first, because I have a passion for filmmaking and, second, because of an overwhelming need for inexpensive, but quality video in a region where video production costs continue to rise,” said Ben McElroy, owner of McElroy films.

After becoming a mainstay in central Massachusetts, McElroy Films was ready to bring its affordable high definition video production and commitment to customer service to the heart of a broader business community; Burlington Massachusetts was the natural fit.

“I wanted to be both more accessible to our clients as well as increase our presence in the Boston Area,” extolled McElroy. “Now clients can visit our easily accessible location and see our production processes first hand. It’s exciting to see video production come together and our clients can share in that excitement.”

McElroy’s mission is to render high definition easily accessible to everyone without sacrificing quality. He achieves this by customizing every project to each of his client’s specific needs. In addition to using his expansive knowledge and experience, Ben McElroy has a network of professionals in the field with which he can confer to create the best possible product. That being said, Ben makes sure that the client is there every step of the way and has full understanding of every element of the production process.

McElroy Films uses all professional quality equipment at every level of production. Cameras, such as the stunningly sharp Canon 7D, record HD video to cards rather than tape to streamline the editing process and get the content onto DVD’s, Blu-rays, and the internet faster and with greater precision. Sound is taken care of by wired and wireless ‘on-subject’ microphones; the same devices used for television and cinema. Once reserved only for high budget productions, McElroy also uses equipment such as dollies, GlideCams, sliders, and professional grade lighting to get that cinematic ‘look’ for any production. With the use of green screen technology, clients can even be interviewed at the new Burlington location and be digitally placed against any background right in the studio.

“Video is no longer limited to distribution by television or DVD,” explains McElroy. “The Internet has evolved into a communal environment where a company’s message can be spread to millions over social networks such as Facebook and Twitter, but that message has to be easily found on search engines such as Yahoo, Bing, and Google to be truly effective. In addition, companies have to find a way to keep users on their site long enough to hear out what they have to say. What better way do grab someone’s attention and get your message across than with embedded videos on home pages and blogs?”

To learn more about McElroy Films LLC, visit their website at http://mcelroyfilms.com, call (888) 303-2744 x703, or visit their new office at 101 Cambridge Street, Suite 300, Burlington, MA 01803.

About Ben McElroy

Ben started his career in high school as a documentarian, filming abroad in Turkey, Israel, Greece, and India for Open Air Campaigners, His Land Israel Tours, and The People’s Baptist College and Seminary. His college experience included the New York Film Academy, Full Sail University in Orlando, FL, and UMass Lowell. Ben won the National Press Photographers Award for outstanding photography during his time with the Lowell Sun and also spent time with the Associated Press, Manchester Union Leader, and Time Warner. His recent corporate videography includes pieces for Fenn School in Concord, MA, the Crohns and Colitis Foundation of America, etc.

About McElroy Films

McElroy Films LLC is a professional producer of high definition video for corporate, educational, non-profit, wedding, music video, and independent film use. Serving the Massachusetts and New England area, McElroy Films’ mission is to keep high definition video affordable without sacrificing quality. Ben McElroy and his staff take pride in their client-first approach and personalized attention to every project.

Ben McElroy Launches McElroy Weddings

McElroy Weddings Unites Cinematic Style Film with Affordable Wedding Video

Ben McElroy launches New England based McElroy Weddings, professional high definition wedding videography at an affordable price.

Leominster, MA (PRWEB) April 1, 2010 — Ben McElroy launched McElroy Weddings to marry professional cinematic film style with wedding videography. McElroy Weddings, a partner company of McElroy Films, offers professional, high definition wedding video at an affordable price. McElroy Weddings produces everything from “save the date” videos to full wedding films and trailers.  “Wedding videography is often looked upon as a luxury; however, we believe it should be viewed as an essential part of every wedding. Just like photos, videography is a special keepsake to be enjoyed for generations. I started McElroy Weddings to join luxury quality wedding videography with the affordability that makes it accessible for every wedding budget.” said Ben McElroy about his new business.

McElroy applies the same cinematic film style to his wedding videography that he does to his corporate, nonprofit, educational, campaign and music videos. He refers to them as “wedding films” to describe his Hollywood style. McElroy’s wedding films use high definition filming and editing, professional microphones, an extensive music library, camera support such as Glidecam technology and customized video options and special effects.  McElroy Weddings specializes in high definition videography and Blu-ray technology, the highest quality video available. Each wedding film is produced in high definition from start to finish.
McElroy delivers the final product in a number of popular formats from Blu-ray and DVD to media files for devices such as ipod touch and iphone. McElroy encodes, embeds and hosts videos for the wedding websites that more and more couples are putting up, and provides “save the date” and wedding trailers to be shared on social media sites such as Facebook, Twitter and Youtube. Each wedding is different, reflecting the individual story of each couple, and each wed ding film should be different too.  McElroy Weddings customizes each couple’s story by offering the same boutique service and client driven results that he offers at McElroy Films.

McElroy offers the flexibility of several pricing packages and a la carte options. McElroy introduced a new website and blog for McElroy Weddings. The website contains everything from packages to sample trailers. The blog has informative articles on subjects such as How to Find the Right Wedding Videographer and Top Ten Tips for Creating a Cinematic Video.

About Ben McElroy Ben started in high school by filming documentaries on location in Turkey, Israel, Greece and India for organizations such as Open Air Campaigners, His Land Israel Tours and The People’s Baptist College and Seminary. His education continued at New York Film Academy, Full Sail University in Orlando, FL and the University of Massachusetts.  Ben worked as a staff photographer for the Lowell Sun where he won a National Press Photographers Association award for outstanding photography. Additional career credits include the Associated Press, Manchester Union Leader and Time Warner. Ben has shot and edited corporate videos for Nike, Timken, Crohn’s & Colitis Foundation, Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, Bank of New York Mellon, Ropes and Gray and campaign videos for Presidential candidate Mitt Romney.

About McElroy Weddings McElroy Weddings is a full service wedding video production company specializing in producing professional, high definition, cinematic wedding films at an affordable price. Each wedding film is customizable from start to finish offering client-driven results. Owned by parent company McElroy Films, McElroy Weddings serves Massachusetts and New England.

Campaign Video Production Services

McElroy Films is proud to announce additional services. We now offer campaign video production for public servants seeking higher office.

Click here to see the service page.

▪ Event Coverage – From Diners to conventions, McElroy has you covered. We use single and multiple cameras to capture your entire speeches or Q&A.

▪ Campaign Videos – Let the public see your personal side. We can produce a compelling vignettes for your supporters.

▪ Teleprompter - This is an important tool for any scripted message you need to get across.

▪ Green Screen – This is an industry standard for television and web videos. We can replace a background with any information you need. From logos to scenic settings.

▪ True Broadcast HD Production - We Shoot entirely in High Definition video. Proving the highest quality resolution for videos.

▪ Post Production – Once the video is shot we can provide postproduction work on your video including color correction, image enhancement, graphics and audio.

▪ Web Implementation – The final step for your video is delivery. Online video is an essential key to any campaign. Youtube, Facebook, Twitter, and Myspace are some of the most popular sites to get your message to voters. We prepare, encode and upload your video either to our dedicated servers or launch your video onto social networking sites.

▪ Traditional Broadcast – Television is still a powerful means to get your message across to voters.  Strategic placement of your television buys is key and makes a difference while campaigning against your running mate.

Ten Tips for Choosing the Right Wedding Videographer

View the Press Release on PRWeb

Ben McElroy of McElroy Films offers his top 10 tips for hiring the right wedding videographer to help brides avoid some common pitfalls.

Leominster, MA (PRWEB) November 30, 2009 — December is the most popular month to get engaged according to The Wedding Report. Once the initial excitement wears off and a bride gets down to the business of wedding planning, she can often be overwhelmed at the number of decisions to be made. The actual wedding planning is important, but choosing the right videographer to preserve that special day is just as important.

“Choosing a videographer may take a lot of homework, but your do-diligence will pay off immensely. Your video is going to last a lifetime so make sure you’re happy with every aspect of production.” explains Ben McElroy of Massachusetts based McElroy Films. “There are a few pitfalls brides encounter, such as hiring a bait and switch company that subcontracts the work and not reading the fine print in their contract. A little planning in advance can help avoid these pitfalls.”

Here are McElroy’s top ten tips for choosing the right wedding videographer:

-   Start researching early. Take the time to do your homework. Make sure you meet with the actual person who will be shooting your wedding and have a list of questions ready. Research their education and experience. Do an internet search and visit forums and blogs. Ask to see previous customer testimonials.

-   Hire early on in the wedding planning process. Brides often wait until the last minute to hire a videographer but hiring early can make the process go more smoothly and open up additional video opportunities such as “save the date” videos.

-   View samples of their work in advance. Look for samples on their website. Watch as many videos from their archive as possible and pay attention to the quality of work. Look at the overall picture quality, composition, and transitions. Another crucial aspect is the audio quality. Ask if they use wireless microphones for professional quality sound. Some videographers use on board microphones only, but the sound quality is poor, especially for vows and speeches.

-   Choose a video production company with customizable service. A good production company will keep up on the latest trends in wedding videos and will offer client-driven services rather than an outdated, one-size-fits-all approach.

-   Be specific about the mood, style, and special effects you’re looking for. Bring samples with you to show what you want. Ask to see the different types of special effects they offer.

-   Ask about their video style. Some companies are now offering a modern approach to video including Save the Date, Vignettes, and Couple Stories. Find out what else can be included in your video such as highlights, credits, or photomontages. Cinematic Weddings is a hot video trend. They create an overall mood beyond basic footage. Look for videographers using HD cameras and glidecams, shooting in 24 frames per second (FPS), and who are knowledgeable in cinematic editing techniques.

-   Consider their personality and appearance. Look for someone with the best personality and look to match the wedding theme. Be sure to tell the videographer what to wear for the wedding. If there is more than one videographer at the production company make sure to meet the person who will shoot the wedding.

-   Make sure they are unobtrusive. A great wedding videographer won’t be noticed while still achieving everything needed to capture the big day. Ask if the videographer has experience at your ceremony and reception venues already. Videographers with newspaper or television experience are more likely to know proper etiquette and how to be unseen. State specific requests, such as not interrupting guests with interview questions, in advance.

-   Look for a company that offers High Definition (HD) from start to finish. Many companies are now offering HD, but not all HD is the same. Some videographers shoot in Standard Definition and then burn the footage to Blu-ray. Ask about what types of cameras they use and have them explain the differences. They should be using the latest HD cameras with 1080p resolution.

-   Find out if they can stay within your budget. Look for any additional fees. Most deposits are non-refundable so keep that in mind. Ask if they are running any discounts or special promotions. Many production companies are now offering a gift registry to finance wedding videos. This can be added to overall cost or toward specific items such as additional hours or extra DVDs.

About McElroy Films

McElroy Films LLC is a professional high definition video production company serving Massachusetts and New England. Specializing in corporate, educational, non-profit, wedding, independent filmmaking and music video production, McElroy Films provides a high quality product at a fraction of the cost. McElroy Films prides itself on its client-driven results and boutique-like service by affording each project the attention it deserves.

Cinematic Wedding Videos

Not all weddings are “Cinematic”. There are specific things to look for. Including the following.

• Story Telling
• Imagery
• High Definition
• 24 Frame Per Second (FPS)
• GlideCam
• Professional Microphones
• Multi-camera
• Pre-Interviews
• Editing Techniques

First and foremost behind every great cinematic wedding is good story telling.

These types of wedding videos require a certain level of “corporate video” pre production. Just like a corporate video these types of wedding videos require research and scripting to a certain extent.

The production company needs to have a game plan. Most cinematic wedding have interviews or narration. The interviewees need to have the right setup questions to yield great answers. A skilled producer should write a list of pre-wedding questions that capture emotions and compassion. Once the correct answers are given they are generally overlayed on the wedding footage and are edited in an elegant way.

Cinematic wedding also require great imagery. Shot composition and subject placement within the frame must adhere to industry rules and standards. The videographer needs to have a good eye and someone that pays close attention to detail. Talent from the film business and television are some of the best for the job. They have been cultured to capture shots that will bring to life feelings and emotion.

Some technical aspects of cinematic wedding videos are the use of pro video tools. High Definition cameras in the last few years have endured a huge surge of innovation and hype. Prices have allowed consumers to buy up “HD” cameras at a huge rate. However this has also made it affordable for want-to-be filmmakers to use low quality equipment for business. High-end production companies generally spend anywhere from 25-50 grand to get set up with the right equipment for video production. Video resolution is key. Most affordable cameras shoot in 1080 but there’s a big deference between 1080i and 1080p. I wont go into detail in this entry but all HD is not a one-size-fits all.

Another way to judge cinematic weddings is the frame rate. In Hollywood there’s only one frame rate they use for television and movies. This is twenty-four frames per second (24p). Good cinematic weddings use this frame rate. It gives the picture a more natural look and takes away the home video look. Another great tool for videographers is a Glidcam. It’s and ingenuous tool that keeps the camera balanced when you walk or run. It is basically like mounting your camera on a gimbal. They use them in  movies and TV shows. Pro audio is essential to any cinematic wedding. Even if there’s great shots and nice editing, if the video has poor audio the whole piece will suffer. Make sure to have wireless audio during the ceremony. Also, make sure to have the videographer patch into the soundboard at the reception to capture all the speeches in perfect clarity. Shooting your wedding with multiple cameras can be great. Especially during the ceremony when you have both the bride and groom. It’s nice to have one camera on the Bride and the other on the Groom capturing both sets of emotions. It also comes in handy during the reception. One camera can capture cocktail hour while the other camera captures the formals. It’s just a great idea to have two cameras if you can afford it.

Pre-interviews can be fun and exciting. Capturing the essential people such as the Bride & Groom and the parents talking about how great and exciting their wedding day is going to be. These interviews make for interesting editing and tell the story of the wedding day.

One of the most popular cinematic editing techniques is a wedding highlights video or a “movie trailer” of the wedding day. These are generally filled with nice aesthetic detail shots of the bride and groom throughout their wedding day cut to music with special effects. Music is another way to add real production value to your wedding video. Not just popular music but good quality music from a music library. Music helps to move the video along and sets the mood and tone for certain scenes. Special effects can also add to the value of a cinematic wedding. The use of black&white filters, color correction, soft focus and other filters can really add to the overall look of the video.

Hopefully this gives you an idea of what to look for when searching for a cinematic wedding video. If you have more questions feel free to email me at ben@mcelroyfilms.com.

New Canon EOS 7D HD Footage

Some new HD footage from the Canon EOS 7D.
Lenses used
Canon EF 70-200mm f/4.0 L
Canon EF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 IS
Watch on Youtube!

Canon EOS 7D Footage from Ben McElroy on Vimeo.

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